Judy C. (Hachtel) Swaisgood

Judy C. Swaisgood, 83, of Ashland passed away Wednesday, June 3, 2026. She was born October 2, 1942, in Ashland, Ohio, the daughter of Glenn and Mildred “Millie” (née Bryan) Smetzer. She grew up in Red Haw, starting school in a one room schoolhouse, and was a proud 1960 graduate of Polk High School. She graduated from Ashland College in 1964.

Judy found her calling to education on that one room school and would practice for her future - collecting students to teach, both willing (her stuffed animals) and less willing (her siblings, cousins or live animals). She started her formal teaching career in Wooster City Schools followed by Pleasant Street School in Ashland. After taking time to raise a family, she found her passion working as a Special Education tutor in the Ashland City Schools. She was always willing to give her students extra care and they became like extended family to her. Her students probably will remember her “nag notes” about missing assignments and their birthday treats as well.

Judy was a dedicated member at Trinity Country Church, where she served on many committees throughout her membership. Her leadership in bringing the ACCESS program to the church and, more recently, the Rummage Sale provided the community with a view to her kind and generous spirit.

Judy’s commitment to her community extended to 4-H, as a club leader, to Mini Modern Kids and selling tickets and concessions at Ashland City Schools sporting events.

She married Russell J. Hachtel in 1968, and they raised 3 children, Cindy Hachtel, of Ephrata, Washington, Linda (Christopher) Regan of Cookeville, Tennessee; and Larry Hachtel of Cookeville, Tennessee. Russell preceded her in death.

Judy is survived by her loving husband Dan Swaisgood, who she married March 2, 2016, and recently celebrated 10 years of marriage; her sister Becky Echelberger of Ashland; brother Glenn “Skip” (Bonnie) Smetzer Jr.; many nieces and nephews; and the “bonus” family she gained in Dan’s siblings, nieces and nephews.

Service will be 11 am, Friday, June 12, 2026, at Trinity Country Church, 1301 Ohio 89, Ashland. Burial will be in Trinity Cemetery. A meal will immediately follow the service at the church. Friends may call 4-6 pm, Thursday, June 11, 2026 at Fickes Funeral Home in Jeromesville.

Memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Country Church, 1301 Ohio 89, Ashland, Ohio 44805-9766.

Condolences may be made at www.fickesfuneralhome.com.